[Danoir]

I have an iMac 333. It has worked just fine for years and just today developed a problem.

The normal sequence would be to push the power button, hear the computer turn on (though the power light is still orange) and then the monitor turns on and the orange light turns green at the same time.

However, this morning, I push the power button, computer turns on, and immediately after the monitor switches on and the light turns green, the whole thing shuts down. Over and over again. I tried holding down shift and the PRAM sequence, but nothing changes. As soon as that light turns from orange to green, it shuts off.

Any ideas? Is this a hardware problem? Can it be fixes or is this about it for the computer? Any help is greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
D

[kick52]

i had something like this, i heard the startup chime and no activity. the light stays orange and only the fan runs. but, i left it for a night, took the plug out, put back in and it started.


edit: before, did the screen make a taping sound and flicker? did anything unusual happen before this happened?

[seanc]

It's probably one of two things.

1. You've installed Panther (10.3) and not updated the firmware first.
2. The Flyback transformer is dead.

Have you installed Panther without updating the firmware?

[Danoir]

Panther has been on the computer for almost a year. Never been a problem.

The screen never gets to the point of flickering and nothing unusual like this has happened before. You can hear the noise of when the monitor comes on, which happens simultaneously with the light turning from orange to green, and then immediate shutdown.

I also had it unplugged all night and the same thing just happened moments before I'm writing this.

If it is a hardware problem, is that an expensive fix? Might it be time to think about a new machine?

Many thanks,
D

[seanc]

Is it a slot loader or tray loader??

Check to see if there's a VGA port on the back. I think it's near the bottom. It may be easier to put a cloth on your desk or table and then lay the Imac on it's screen to have a look.
It may be hidden, but should be obvious if it's there.

If you can hook up an external monitor then it should boot.
See if you can update the firmware (1.2 or 4.19) depending on what version of Imac you have.

[Danoir]

This is a tray-loader. There is no VGA port.

I took it to the local Apple store and they suggested I reset the logic board (a process which still eludes me) and try replacing the 1/2 AA battery on the motherboard. I tried replacing the battery, no luck. Any other suggestions?

Thanks,
D